Qualitative Analysis of UV-Absorbents in Cosmetics Based on UV-Vis Spectrum

Many cosmetic products contain ultraviolet absorbers (UV- absorbents) which protect the skin from ultraviolet rays. In Japan, ingredients of UV-absorbents and their allowable quantities are regulated under Standards for Cosmetics (2000, Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare Notification No. 331) based on the Act on Securing Quality, Efficacy and Safety of Products Including Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices (PMD Act). Because these standards differ depending on the country and region, compliance with the applicable regulations is verified by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) when importing/exporting cosmetics. Against this background, Application News No. L541 introduced an example of high-speed analysis of 23 UV-absorbents. This article introduces a method for qualitative analysis of six UV-absorbents based on the UV-Vis spectrum.